Body Recon Plastic Surgery

Body Recon Cosmetic Clinic

Body Recon Clinic Epworth

Breast Augmentation Geelong

Breast Augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or breast implant surgery, is one of Dr Rahdon’s most commonly performed procedures. He is dedicated to producing exceptional results that are in total harmony and balance with the woman’s figure.

There are many reasons why a woman may choose to undergo breast augmentation. Breast appearance may alter with age, weight change or after pregnancy/ breastfeeding. Women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts, or have experienced changes in breast appearance can achieve fuller, nicer shaped breasts with breast augmentation. Breast augmentation can help to increase or balance the size of the breasts, restore breast volume or restore the shape of the breast after partial or total loss. It is important to understand that breast augmentation cannot correct significantly sagging or drooping breasts. In these instances a breast lift (mastopexy) is often required and may be performed in conjunction with augmentation.

Methods used

The procedure itself generally involves placing an implant into a pocket formed beneath the breast tissue. There are many decisions to make when considering breast implants, including the implant type/size/shape, incision placement and placement of the implant under or over the muscle. These decisions are best made in consultation with Dr Rahdon who will be able to discuss the pros and cons of each option and tailor a plan for each individual.

There are three common incisions used in breast augmentation. The most common is placed directly under the breast. Other options include an incision around the areola or in the armpit. Dr Rahdon is able to keep the incision as small as possible (usually around 3-5cms) by using a Kellar funnel to insert the implant.

The next decision is where to place the implant – this can be either submuscular or subglandular. Submuscular placement refers to an implant that is placed partially or completely beneath the pectoralis muscle, against the chest wall. In contrast, subglandular placement refers to an implant that is placed beneath the breast tissue but above the pectoralis muscle. Dr Rahdon will help to determine the placement location that is best for you.

There are a lot of factors that influence both incision and placement location, such as the patient’s physique, physical activity, shape, scar type/placement, preference and recovery time.

Implant Options

As with methods used in breast augmentation surgery, the type of implant used will also vary with each individual. Dr Rahdon favours silicone implants that are made of a silicone rubber shell and filled with a cohesive silicone gel. There is no significant evidence to suggest that silicone implants increase your risk of breast cancer, connective tissue disorders or autoimmune disease. Modern silicone implants are far superior to saline implants in terms of feel, shape and longevity. It is for these reasons that silicone implants represent by far the majority of implants used for breast augmentation in Australia today.

The implants available differ in shape, texture, profile, width, height and volume. The type, style and size of breast implants you choose are determined by your lifestyle, body contours, the amount of breast tissue you have, and the cup size and appearance that you would like to achieve. Dr Rahdon will spend as much time as required to determine which implant is best for you. At Body Recon we are also able to offer you a trial of fitting different implant sizes to help work out what looks and feels right for you.

Why should I have a breast augmentation?

Some women are unhappy with the small size or the shape of their breasts. It may be that they didn’t develop a lot of breast tissue during puberty or that their breasts may have shrunk or become saggy after weight loss, pregnancy or breastfeeding. This can lead to a disproportion between breast size and shape and the rest of the body which can effect self-esteem. You may simply have always wished for bigger breasts which can enhance your femininity both in and out of clothes.

Am I suitable candidate for breast augmentation?

Not everyone is suitable for a breast augmentation. Following a thorough analysis of your medical history and a clinical consultation, suitability for breast augmentation will be assessed. Certainly you will need to be in good general health and within a healthy weight range.

During your consultation Dr Rahdon will discuss with you the wide choice of implants and sizes available and will recommend the most appropriate for you.

What’s involved?

The operation is performed under a general anaesthesic and takes about 1½ hours. The operation is usually done as day surgery but occasionally an overnight stay in hospital may be required.

After the surgery you will need to wear a compression bra to help with your recovery and reduce any swelling. This garment is to be worn for six weeks, after which time you may wear whatever you choose. A week or two off work is recommended as you may be a bit sore for the first few days. Usually pain can be well managed with either endone or regular paracetamol tablets. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for the first six weeks.

What are the benefits of breast augmentation?

For many patients, the size and shape of the breasts has been of concern for years and most report increased confidence and improved self-esteem following breast augmentation surgery.

When will I notice the results and how long will they last?

The increase in breast size and shape will be immediately apparent following breast augmentation, however there may be a small amount of bruising and swelling which can last several weeks. The scars will undergo a natural maturation process involving a series of colour and texture changes over a period of around six months to two years. The laser scar revision we offer at Body Recon Cosmetic Clinic visually improves the scars’ appearance and feel.

The breast shape will change over the few months post-surgery and the final result can usually be judged at around six months. The results of a breast augmentation are long lasting provided your operation is done at an age when your breasts have stopped growing. Large fluctuations in weight and further pregnancies can lead to a change in breast size and shape and the normal age related effects on skin laxity can lead to a development of loose skin and a drooping of the breast tissue.

All breast implants will induce the formation of scar tissue around them (called a capsule) and, in some individuals, this can contract and become hard and painful and distort the shape of the breast. The rate of capsular contracture is around two percent. It is difficult to predict who will be affected by capsular contracture, at what time and to what extent. The average breast implants tend to last well over 10 years and in many patients a lifetime. All patients who undergo breast augmentation should accept that they may require further surgery at some stage either to release scar tissue or to remove or replace the implants.

How much does a consultation cost?

A consultation with Dr Rahdon costs $170.00; for a cosmetic procedure there is no rebate. The first consultation for breast augmentation generally takes about one hour. We also offer an initial complimentary consultation with one of our cosmetic nurse specialists – this is great for patients who want to find out more about their options and to have some basic questions answered. A consultation with Dr Rahdon is always required prior to surgery to determine suitability and to decide on breast implant size, placement etc.

Do I need a referral?

In most cases a referral is not required as breast augmentation is considered to be a cosmetic procedure. In some cases of extreme breast asymmetry or congenital breast deformity, Medicare may assist with payment. A detailed breast examination by your GP will assess suitability for access to Medicare. If referred by a GP with such a condition, you may be eligible for a rebate from Medicare of $72.75 for your consultation. Your surgery may also be subsidised.

What happens during my first consultation?

You will be required to complete a registration form for the clinic and your medical history will be reviewed. For those considering cosmetic surgery, Dr Rahdon will generally spend an hour discussing specific concerns as well as your possible procedural options. Photographs will usually be taken and you will receive an information pack. In order to get the most from your consultation with Dr Rahdon, it is strongly recommended that you learn a little about the procedure before you meet with him – a prior consultation with one of our cosmetic nurse specialists may be advisable. However for patients already well informed on the surgery this may not be required. If you already have a date in mind for your surgery and are keen to proceed, this can be booked during your first consultation.

What happens after the first consultation?

For larger procedures, you will usually be encouraged to attend a second consultation (at no further cost). This allows time for you to consider all the information you have been given, prepare questions and conduct your own research. It also allows time for a cost estimate to be prepared and sent to you. A suitable date and time for your surgery will be organised and your breast implants will be ordered.

Before your operation you will be requested to go to Chez Ma Belle Lingerie, in Yarra Street, Geelong, to be fitted for a support garment. You need to bring this with you on the day of your surgery and it will be fitted immediately post-op, while you are still asleep. The support garment will need to be worn for 48hrs following your breast augmentation surgery.

Will I be told the risks and complications?

Major complications are uncommon following breast augmentation. During your initial consultation Dr Rahdon will have a full discussion with you about the risks and complications of surgery. You will be given information about breast augmentation including potential complications and if you decide to go ahead with surgery these risks will be discussed again as part of the consenting process. Fortunately, with correct patient and procedure selection the risks are kept to an absolute minimum. You can be assured that Dr Rahdon will not agree to perform any cosmetic procedure unless he feels the benefits significantly outweigh any risks.

What are some possible complications with breast augmentation?

The reality is that you are in the best hands. If there are any complications Dr Rahdon and his staff will provide the best care. Breast implant rupture is a major source of hesitation when considering implants but a ruptured implant is very rare. Modern implants are made of a cohesive gel which means that even if the implant does rupture, it will not leak into the surrounding breast tissue.

Capsular contracture is another complication that concerns many people considering breast augmentation surgery. Capsular contracture is the hardening and contracture of the scar tissue around the implant which causes a distorted looking breast. Dr Rahdon uses the very latest techniques to assist in reducing the rate of capsular contracture.

Will I be able to have more than one procedure performed on the same day as my breast augmentation?

Yes. In most cases Dr Rahdon will be happy to perform further procedures at the same time, provided these have been discussed in advance; it may be a good opportunity for excision of moles or skin lesions. It is also quite common for people to have other, more major, procedures such as rhinoplasty or abdominoplasy done at the same time as their breast surgery.

What about the scars?

Most commonly the scar is placed in the crease under your breast but can also be in the armpit or around the edge of the nipple. Dr Rahdon will discuss the best option for you during your initial consultation. As part of your surgical package with Dr Rahdon we offer complimentary laser scar revision at Body Recon Cosmetic Clinic to assist with healing and improve the appearance of scars.

What happens on the day of my surgery?

You will be advised by your anaesthetist as to fasting times. On arrival at St John of God Day Surgery Centre you will be required to fill out some paperwork. From there you will be taken to your own private room and given a gown to change into. Your anaesthetist and Dr Rahdon will meet with you before your surgery and the nursing staff will look after you. Next stop is the anaesthetic room where you will be sedated and anaesthetised before being wheeled into the operating theatre. The operation takes about 90minutes. You will wake up comfortable (thanks to the local anaesthetic administered before your surgery), on the recovery ward. You will be monitored for a couple of hours after waking and discharged home with a friend or family member to care for you.

As the anaesthetic wears off you may be nauseated and start to experience some discomfort. You will be given medication to take home with you and instructions on how to use it. One of our cosmetic nurse specialists will call you within 24 hours to check on you following your surgery. You must avoid showering for 48hours post-surgery.

What new methods does Dr Rahdon utilise in his breast augmentation surgery?

Dr Rahdon favours a Kellar funnel insertion which allows for a very small incision to be made, in most cases no greater than 3-5cms. This enables the implant to be inserted without being touched and greatly reduces the risk of capsular contracture.

Will I need to go to hospital for my Breast Augmentation?

Dr Rahdon performs all breast augmentation surgery at accredited hospitals. St John of God Day Surgery Centre feels much more like a day spa than a hospital… so relax! Most patients are able to go home on the same day.

Will I need revision surgery?

Some patients never require revision surgery and will enjoy their implants for a lifetime. However some women may experience a change in body shape as a result of pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight fluctuations and might choose to undergo revision breast surgery to accommodate for this. In other instances, patients may simply change their minds with regards to how they would like their breasts to look.

What if I don’t live in Geelong?

We have a large number of patients who travel to Geelong in order to have their surgery performed by Dr Rahdon. For those that are performed as a day case, you will be required to stay overnight in the Geelong area – we can help arrange accommodation for you. You will be reviewed by Dr Rahdon the day after your surgery before you are able to return home. Dr Rahdon usually likes to see patients for review appointments at two weeks, six weeks and three months. An alternative follow-up plan may be arranged depending on where you are travelling from. Of course you are welcome to contact us at any time or to make an extra appointment if you have any concerns.

What are the costs?

With all surgical procedures there are three costs that need to be considered. These are the surgical fee, the anaesthetic fee and the hospital fee. Some procedures may be rebatable by your health fund, reducing the overall costs. However, breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure and is not rebatable. The anaesthetic fee and hospital fee are dependent on the duration of the operation. Following your initial consultation you will be provided with a written estimate of the fees involved with the procedure. Dr Rahdon is very competitively priced for breast augmentation surgery. There is no fee for your follow-up appointments with Dr Rahdon.

When do I need to pay these fees?

Your surgical and anaesthetic fees are payable two weeks prior to your surgery. The hospital fee and any medications you are sent home with will be paid at the hospital on the day of your surgery.

What about health insurance?

Health insurance will not subsidise your breast augmentation procedure but it is highly recommended to have insurance to assist with possible adjustments/ revision surgery in the future.

Why Should I choose Dr Rahdon to perform my Breast Augmentation?

Dr Rahdon is a highly skilled, fully qualified Plastic Surgeon who specialises in and performs many breast augmentation surgeries per year.

We are able to offer you the best facilities – St John of God Day Surgery Centre in Geelong has been awarded one of the best surgery centres in Australia and Body Recon Cosmetic Clinic won runner-up best MediSpa in Australia in 2012.

We are able to offer you the best post-operative care with on-call cosmetic nurse specialists and regular review appointments with Dr Rahdon to ensure you are 100% happy with your beautiful new breasts. In Geelong there is 24hour plastic surgeon cover for emergencies.

Complimentary laser scar revision at the Body Recon Cosmetic Clinic.

Dr Rahdon will provide revision surgery where required- a luxury not offered for surgeries performed overseas.

Dr Rahdon uses the most up-to-date equipment and techniques in order to provide the best results possible.

Why should I have a breast augmentation or “boob job”?

Some women are unhappy with the small size or the shape of their breasts. It may be that they didn’t develop a lot of breast tissue following puberty or that their breasts may have subsequently shrunk or become saggy after weight loss, pregnancy or breast feeding.

This can lead to a disproportion between breast size and the rest of the body which may affect self esteem. You may simply always wish you had bigger breasts which can enhance your femininity both in and out of clothes.

What’s involved?

Breast augmentation is the term used to describe the surgical technique of enlarging the breast by inserting implants behind the breast. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and lasts about 1½ hours. The op is usually done as day surgery but sometimes you need to stay one night in hospital. There are a number of different shapes, sizes and types of implant, all of which can give excellent results and which are ultimately chosen on an individual basis. The most common implants used are silicone filled (which have been shown to be very safe) but occasionally saline implants are used. The implants are either placed in front or behind the chest muscle (pectoralis major), depending on what is best for you.

After the op you will be able to wear a soft bra and you will notice the results straight away! After four weeks you can wear anything you like…. You will probably need a week off work as it can be a bit sore for the first few days. Usually pain can be well managed with tablets which we will give you. It takes a few weeks before you can return to really vigorous exercise.

What about the scars?

The most common scar is in the crease under your breast, but scars can be in the underarm or around the edge of the nipple. Dr. Rahdon will discuss the options that suit you best.

Am I suitable for a breast augment?

Not everyone is suitable for a breast augmentation. Suitability is a matter for you and Dr. Rahdon to discuss, following a thorough analysis of your medical history and a thorough clinical consultation. Certainly you will need to be in good general health and within a healthy weight range.

If you are suitable, during your consultation Dr. Rahdon will discuss with you the wide choice of implants available and help you decide the most appropriate implant for you. Dr. Rahdon will also discuss with you the size of implant you would like.

What are the benefits of breast augmentation?

Frankly, you’ll look great, both in and out of clothes. The surgery visually increases the size of the breast and the operation is very successful at increasing patient confidence and improving self esteem. Patients who have had a breast augmentation enjoy shopping for new clothes and swimwear!

When will I notice the results and how long will they last?

The visual increase in breast size and shape will be immediately apparent following breast augmentation. However, there may be a small amount of bruising and swelling which may last several weeks. The scars will undergo a natural maturation process involving a series of colour and texture changes over a period usually varying from 6 months to 2 years. The breast shape will change little over the next few months and the final result can usually be judged at around 6 months following surgery. The results of a breast augmentation are long lasting provided your operation is done at an age when your breasts have stopped growing. Large fluctuations in weight and further pregnancies can lead to a change is breast size and shape, and the normal age related effects on skin laxity can lead to a development of loose skin and a drooping of the breast tissue. All breast implants will induce the formation of scar tissue around them (called a capsule) and this can contract and become hard and painful and distort the shape of the breast in some individuals. It is difficult to predict who will be affected by this so-called capsular contracture, at what time, and by what extent, but on average, breast implants tend to last well over 10 years. All patients who undergo breast augmentation must accept that they may possibly require further surgery at some stage in the future either to release the scar tissue, remove the implants or replace them.

Will I be told the risks and complications?

Major complications are uncommon following breast augmentation. During your initial consultation Dr. Rahdon will have a full discussion with you about the risks and complications of surgery. You will be given an information leaflet about breast augmentation which includes complications and if you decide to go ahead with surgery, these risks will again be discussed as part of the consenting process. Fortunately, with correct patient selection and appropriate procedure selection, the risks are kept to an absolute minimum. It is important that you should be reassured that Dr. Rahdon will not agree to perform any cosmetic procedure on you unless he feels the benefits significantly outweigh the risks.